For college students, especially those at big universities such as Penn State, it seems like the weekend was made for one thing: going out. Especially as freshmen, every opportunity to have a fun time on Friday and Saturday nights was taken, knowing that a party on a Monday or Tuesday was a rarity. However, time and experience show there is more to college than just the parties, but you shouldn’t believe that going out is all that bad.
Weighing Your Priorities
Students in college have varying goals for their time at university. Someone who wants the perfect career after graduation and thrives on educational validation probably believes that will require long hours at the library, constant productivity and harsh self-talk when any grade received is insufficient. On the other hand, those who prioritize the social aspect of college most likely focus on getting into the “best” social clubs, dedicate time to leisure and might even fall behind on their academics if they can’t find a balance. So, should social life or academics be more important?
It’s in the Data
The National Library of Medicine found that 27% of students who reported psychological distress are at increased risk for depression, depersonalization and burnout from a study conducted in 2022. The National Institute of Health reports that psychological distress can result from shortcomings in personal goals(such as academics) and a lack of social interaction. So, evaluating the cause of personal stress can be a first step in finding balance in your life.
Tricks to finding a better social-academic balance:
- Set attainable goals instead of trying to optimize each day. Once you’ve completed these goals, think of it as free time to do something relaxing!
- Finish assignments early. Submitting assignments a week before they’re due gives you the availability to go out on a whim if your friends all want to do something in the moment. This can even be more enjoyable since it’ll be without the guilt of a deadline looming over you.
- Believe the data. Hearing the number of students who report feeling stressed or burnt out can be scary, but believing you’re better than that is scarier. Remember that you’re human and susceptible to the same kinds of stress that anyone else is, even if you feel like you aren’t.
Remember that there are many lessons that university is meant to teach you, but one that cannot be taught is whether work or socializing is more important. It’s up to you to find your balance.
Have you tackled balancing academic and social life? Tag us @VALLEYmag on Instagram and let us know!
